Sidney Sun

Sidney Sun has been at NASA Ames Research Center since 1988, endeavoring to lead research projects in aerospace, learning how living systems have been affected by the unique environment of spaceflight, and how NASA can partner with others to develop eVTOL air transportation systems. While doing so, he’s enjoyed helping people and organizations to grow and be more collaborative. In 2024, he became the Lead for University Collaborations for NASA Ames, working closely with UC Berkeley to foster the development of Berkeley Space Center, and partnering with other universities on joint research projects. Prior positions at NASA include: Deputy Director for Programs and Projects, Associate Director for Life in Space, and Chief of the Space Biosciences Division. Over his career, he’s managed the development of dozens of payload systems and experiments that were performed on the International Space Station. Sid has worked in space biology, human capital, project management, life support systems, data systems, and flight systems development. Certified as a Professional Coach in 2008, he’s been helping people at Ames and other NASA centers become stronger leaders. He has a BS degree from Case Western Reserve University and an MS degree from University of California, Berkeley. Sid is a runner, biker, and dragon boat paddler; and the proud father of 2 adult children.